Being addicted to anything is bad. Whether that’s drugs, alcohol, or what have you. It is even worse when you’re addicted to something like gambling. Because, then, you will have no control over your finances.
Gambling, as it is, is quite an expensive adventure. Now, it makes it even riskier when you’re addicted to it.
If you’re addicted to gambling or know someone who is, this post has all the answers to the questions you may have.
Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about gambling addiction.
What is gambling addiction?
Gambling addiction is an instinctive disorder causing players to lose control over their impulse to gamble. Many times, gambling addiction is limited to the player only. However, the problem may sometimes spread to family members and loved ones.
What is the extent of gambling addiction in our society? What the stats say
- According to the latest studies, roughly 10 million Americans live with a gambling addiction
- It is estimated that 1 in 20 college students show a tendency for compulsive gambling
- Studies reveal that approximately 23% of college students gamble online, and about 6% of them do so weekly
- Around 80 to 90 percent of gamblers who attend Gamblers Anonymous claim they use illicit means to get money to gamble.
Critical implications of the stats above
- Based on the first stat referenced, it is clear Americans are big on gambling addiction. So, if you’re an American with the same condition, you need not feel bad. You aren’t alone.
- Stat numbers #2 and #3 clearly shows that college students are more at risk of being addicted to gambling.
- Unfortunately, report #3 says many people addicted to gambling may be tempted to get money illegally just to satisfy their addiction.
Gambling addiction: Symptoms and signs
Usually, gambling starts as a harmless hobby. Something you do for fun and money. However, when you keep doing it time and again, it gets to a point you can no longer control your urge. When this happens, a gambling addiction might be around the corner.
You need not beat yourself up, though. Clearly, anyone can become addicted to gambling. Especially considering the number of enticing bonuses casinos like Judi slot Oneida casino offer players every day. However, it is important to spot the signs early enough before it becomes a big problem.
To know whether you or a loved one is living with a gambling addiction problem, below are some questions that need to be asked.
- Mysterious Gambling tendencies: Do you visit a gambling website or walk into a casino even when you didn’t plan to?
- Out of control gambling habit: Do you find yourself unable to stop, or do you know someone who just can’t stop bashing at the slot machine no matter whether they’re winning or losing?
- Desperate for money to gamble: Have you been tempted to borrow or find money illicitly just to play online casinos? Do you know someone who could go any mile to get money to gamble?
- Not knowing when to stop: Do you find yourself chasing losses, even when it’s clearly not your day? Or maybe you have a friend who always wants to win back their lost money.
- Family concerns: Are people starting to worry and complain about your gambling habit? Do you have a friend or a loved one you’re worried about because you think they’re losing their mind to gambling?
If you answer YES to any of these questions, my friend, it is time to get professional help. Gambling addiction is not something you joke with. Even though a lot of people tell themselves they are not addicted, the signs are always there for all to see.
As much as you want to convince others you’re not addicted, you need to be honest with yourself and answer the questions above with maximum honesty.
How to fix your gambling problems
The first step is being honest with yourself.
As we said earlier, you need not deceive yourself. Once you accept and understand that you’re addicted or near being addicted, you’re just a few fixes away from breaking free.
Below are some of the steps to take once you’re ready to break free of your gambling addiction:
- Tell yourself it’s time to stop
- Look for alternative activities to distract yourself from the urge. For example, if you like to gamble on poker a lot. Anytime the urge comes, get yourself hooked up with something exciting and engaging that’s not poker-related.
- Have friends and family around or go and meet them wherever they are. By and large, make sure you’re surrounded by love.
- Ask for help. There are lots of gambling addiction associations out there. Get in touch with them.
- Be part of a support group
Please play responsibly. For more information and advice visit https://www.begambleaware.org
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